How To Care For Your Waterproof Parka Jacket

An EVO Pro Waterproof Parka Jacket is a great investment in comfort and performance, but to keep it working well over time, some simple care steps will go a long way. Below, you’ll find the essentials for cleaning, drying and re-waterproofing your jacket so it stays ready for the elements.

Easy Cleaning Guide

Keeping your parka clean not only helps it look nicer for longer, but it also helps it remain waterproof and breathable. Putting in a bit of extra effort to make sure that your waterproof gear looks and performs at its best is well worth the time investment. The following is a nice, simple guide that you can use to help your waterproof parka jacket stay clean:

If you notice any surface marks, first spot clean with a damp cloth to preserve fabric performance.

Should your parka be dirty and you think that it's performance is being compromised by dirt on the fabric, you can also opt to machine wash at 30°C on a gentle cycle. This is warm enough to get a thorough clean but also a safe temperature for technical fabrics.

Make sure that you fasten all zips before putting the jacket in the machine. This is really important, as it protects both the jacket and the washer. Also, do not use fabric softeners or bleach, as these can compromise the water-repellent finish and breathability of your parka.

We'd always suggest to only machine wash if you really think a deeper clean is required. More often than not, your spot cleaning will do the job and help to ensure you're not reducing the life of your jacket with overcleaning.

In terms of drying after washing, you then have two good options:

• Tumble dry on low heat.
• Lay flat to dry naturally, inside-out. Some waterproof gear can’t be tumble-dried. The EVO Pro can, but you may prefer to let it air-dry to save using the dryer.

Following this routine every few weeks (or whenever the jacket’s starting to look a bit grubby) keeps dirt and oils from building up and reducing the performance of your waterproof parka jacket.

Re-Waterproofing And Why You Need It

The waterproof performance of your parka jacket is delivered through a waterproof membrane, as well as a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating which is what delivers the excellent surface run off.

Due to friction and general use, DWRs can wear off over time. This type of outer coating can also be affected if the fabric is dirty. However, as with all waterproof apparel, you can re-treat your parka and add back a DWR and preserve that all-important protective layer. Please note, your parka must be clean before you can re-apply a DWR.

Waterproofing treatments can be purchased from brands like Nikwax and Grangers, and allow you to add a DWR back to your jacket after general wear and tear over time.

The Grangers Performance Wash + Performance Repel Plus Twin Pack includes a gentle wash for removing dirt and a spray-on waterproofing treatment that restores and boosts the parka’s water-repellent finish after washing. It’s water-based, PFC-free and suitable for a wide range of fabrics, including waterproof, windproof and breathable shells.

How To Re-Waterproof Your Jacket

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Clean with Performance Wash

• Add the recommended amount of Performance Wash (about 25 ml) into your washing machine’s detergent drawer.
• Run a full wash at 30 °C, or according to your jacket’s care label.
• This removes built-up dirt and grime that can interfere with waterproofing.

Step 2: Apply the Repel Plus

• After washing, spray the Performance Repel Plus evenly over the damp outer fabric. Focus in particular on high-wear areas like the shoulders and cuffs.
• Wipe off any excess with a clean cloth.
• Allow the jacket to dry naturally, or use the tumble dryer on low if your care label allows, which can help make the treatment more durable.

That’s all there is to it!

How Often Should You Re-Waterproof?

A good rule of thumb is to re-waterproof your waterproof parka jacket every five washes or so. Consistent aftercare routines like this extend the life of the jacket and keep you more comfortable outdoors for longer. It’s well worth getting into the habit of.

If you have any questions about our waterproof gear, then our team will be very happy to help. Just get in contact, and we’ll offer support as soon as we’re able.